Chapter 3

Cole’s desk took up most of the third wall—a state-of-the-art computer setup in the center. Next to the doorway was a small seating area with two chairs and a coffee table, as well as a low chest with a coffeemaker on top. After Cole offered Gideon coffee, which he declined, they sat.

“I hope he shows up,” Cole said.

“Why wouldn’t he? Especially if the bowl is valuable.”

“If I were to buy it from him, I’d offer somewhere in the neighborhood of five hundred dollars.”

“And sell it for?” Gideon asked.

“Nine-fifty to a thousand, minimum.”

Gideon smiled. “So you’d both make out like bandits. I’m kidding,” he added, when Cole frowned. “If the rest of what was stolen was as valuable, the man…What is his name, by the way?”

“Oscar Ellis. Or at least that’s what was on his driver’s license and how he signed the contract for the appraisal.”

“You doubt it’s his real name?”